subject: Dental Implants- The Longest-lasting Way To Replace A Missing Tooth [print this page] If you ever find yourself in a situation where you are in need of a tooth replacement, why not go with the longest lasting option? Over the past few decades, dental implants have become a popular way to replace patients' missing teeth. A dental implant is a replacement tooth root that is installed directly into the bone socket of a missing tooth and attached to your jawbone. Once the implant is installed, it will act as an anchor for a replacement crown. If you are in need of a tooth replacement procedure, don't hesitate to talk to your Fairfax dentist about dental implants.
How Implants Are Installed
The first step in receiving implants is to have a conversation with your dentist to go over your options and see if you are a good candidate for implants. To receive implants, you need to have enough bone and gum material to effectively support the implants. Once you and your dentist have decided that implants are the best option for you, he or she will then anesthetize the area and install the titanium implant into the bone socket of the missing tooth. Once the implant is securely fastened to your jawbone, you will need to wait between six and twelve weeks for your gums to heal around it.
Once the healing process is completed, your dentist will then attach a small connector post to the implant. He or she will also take an impression of the area in order to create a crown that will fit in perfectly with your teeth. Once the crown is ready, your dentist will then attach it directly to the connector post and the process will be completed. You will then be free to leave the office and start fully enjoying your new and improved smile.
Benefits Of Dental Implants
There are a variety of important benefits to dental implants. The most significant benefit is that implants are the longest-lasting tooth replacement option available to you. Once it is installed, your implant can last as long as 25 years or in some cases an entire lifetime. In addition, implants do not require any additional work to maintain other than the normal brushing, flossing and regular checkups from your dentist for cleanings and monitoring of the health of your teeth and gums.
Dental implants are also much less invasive then some other procedures. In a dental bridge procedure, your dentist will need to remove some of your teeth in order for the bridge to fit in your mouth. A dental implant installation does not require your dentist to remove any tooth material at all.
To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment, contact your family dentist in Fairfax as soon as possible.
